James Castle fundraising for DMWS at the 80th Anniversary of the Long March - DMWS
DMWS are grateful to have James Castle fundraising for us at the 80th Anniversary of the Long March in Germany. He’ll be taking part in a 3-day pilgrimage, walking the route travelled by 10,000 allied prisoners in World War 2. The march begins in Sagan in Poland, commencing at the site of Stalag Luft III on Friday 24th January, and will finish at Spremburg in Germany on Sunday 26th January.
James was inspired to take part in this march due to his passion for and connection to its heritage. His Great Uncle, Tony Parsons, was shot down in December 1941. After spending four days in an open dinghy in the North Sea, he was rescued by the German Army and spent the next year in various hospitals being treated for frostbite. In January 1943 he arrived at Stalag Luft III, and among other activities, he made compasses for The Great Escape. He was one of those who took part in The Long March of 1945, and who was supported by The Joint War Committee.
James told us “During the three-day march, I will be proud to carry the flag of the Defence Medical Welfare Service in tribute to the prisoners of war and the support they received. As a Royal British Legion Standard Bearer, I am keen to show my support of the Armed Forces Community.”
James has also spoken to British Forces Broadcasting to discuss the upcoming pilgrimage. You can listen via the link, from 30.40 to 36.30: BFBS James Castle Fundraiser for DMWS.
All funds raised will directly support people who serve and have served and their families. We are privileged that James is fundraising for us and look forward to following his journey. If you would like to learn more or donate, please visit https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/dmwsthelongmarch
Notes to Editors:
About Defence Medical Welfare Service (DMWS)
Defence Medical Welfare Service (DMWS) is an independent charity providing medical welfare to those who have, and continue to, operate on the frontline. We place trained professional welfare officers in locations throughout the UK and Cyprus to deliver much-needed additional support for those who are on the clinical pathway. DMWS is committed to providing the highest level of welfare support to those in need, promoting their physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing.
Whether it is a new or pre-existing issue, our service is for anyone undergoing treatment for a health-related issue. By providing support in a range of settings, our staff are committed to promoting and preserving the health and wellbeing of those who have dedicated their lives to serving our communities. In addition, they are committed to enabling them to reach their full potential. This can speed up discharge from hospital, help patients recover more quickly, and reduce the likelihood of readmission or the need for onward referral.
DMWS has a long and proud history of supporting the military in times of need, offering expert help and advice to those affected by health-related issues. Through its comprehensive services and outstanding dedication, DMWS has become an integral part of the armed forces community, offering invaluable support to the armed forces community at their critical time of need.
More can be found out on our website at https://dmws.org.uk
Published: 20th January, 2025